Stricken Houston Lines Up for Food, Water

Thousands of weary Houston residents joined lines that stretched for blocks yesterday to collect the basics they need to survive in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. Emergency supplies are being strictly rationed and each family is allowed only two bags of ice, a case of bottled water and a 12-pack of ready-to-eat meals. "The rules are in place to make sure everybody gets something," said a local pastor, though some distribution centers had inadequate supplies.

Close to 1.56 million residents are still without power and grappling with the effects of widespread flooding. President Bush plans to visit the area today. Galveston's major, meanwhile, continued to plead with residents to stay away—or leave—until the city can offer basic services. City workers are still seeking survivors who may need help in flooded homes.
(More Houston stories.)